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Watters S, Higgins A. Muscle dysmorphia: an under-recognised aspect of body dissatisfaction in men. BRITISH JOURNAL OF NURSING (MARK ALLEN PUBLISHING) 2024; 33:584-588. [PMID: 38900653 DOI: 10.12968/bjon.2023.0176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
Although men and women both experience eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa, there are differences in the way their eating disorder may present. Body dissatisfaction or body dysmorphia in men may be more related to a drive for muscularity as opposed to thinness. Muscle dysmorphic disorder (also known as muscle dysmorphia) is a form or subtype of body dysmorphia that is characterised by an extreme desire for muscularity and a preoccupation with the idea that one's physique is too small or not sufficiently muscular. It is more common in men than women and is associated with body image distortion, excessive exercise routines, muscularity-orientated disordered eating and the use of appearance- and performance-enhancing drugs such as anabolic androgenic steroids. Risk factors for muscle dysmorphic disorder include social pressure (including to conform to gender stereotypes) and low self-esteem. The condition has negative psychological, physical, relational and financial effects. Nurses can play a role in health promotion as well as in the assessment, care and referral of men with muscle dysmorphic disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Watters
- Registered Psychiatric Nurse, and Master's Student in Applied Social Research, School of Social Work and Social Policy Trinity College Dublin
| | - Agnes Higgins
- Professor in Mental Health, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Trinity College Dublin
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2
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Hower H, LaMarre A, Bachner-Melman R, Harrop EN, McGilley B, Kenny TE. Conceptualizing eating disorder recovery research: Current perspectives and future research directions. J Eat Disord 2022; 10:165. [PMID: 36380392 PMCID: PMC9664434 DOI: 10.1186/s40337-022-00678-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND How we research eating disorder (ED) recovery impacts what we know (perceive as fact) about it. Traditionally, research has focused more on the "what" of recovery (e.g., establishing criteria for recovery, reaching consensus definitions) than the "how" of recovery research (e.g., type of methodologies, triangulation of perspectives). In this paper we aim to provide an overview of the ED field's current perspectives on recovery, discuss how our methodologies shape what is known about recovery, and suggest a broadening of our methodological "toolkits" in order to form a more complete picture of recovery. BODY: This paper examines commonly used methodologies in research, and explores how incorporating different perspectives can add to our understanding of the recovery process. To do this, we (1) provide an overview of commonly used methodologies (quantitative, qualitative), (2) consider their benefits and limitations, (3) explore newer approaches, including mixed-methods, creative methods (e.g., Photovoice, digital storytelling), and multi-methods (e.g., quantitative, qualitative, creative methods, psycho/physiological, behavioral, laboratory, online observations), and (4) suggest that broadening our methodological "toolkits" could spur more nuanced and specific insights about ED recoveries. We propose a potential future research model that would ideally have a multi-methods design, incorporate different perspectives (e.g., expanding recruitment of diverse participants, including supportive others, in study co-creation), and a longitudinal course (e.g., capturing cognitive and emotional recovery, which often comes after physical). In this way, we hope to move the field towards different, more comprehensive, perspectives on ED recovery. CONCLUSION Our current perspectives on studying ED recovery leave critical gaps in our knowledge about the process. The traditional research methodologies impact our conceptualization of recovery definitions, and in turn limit our understanding of the phenomenon. We suggest that we expand our range of methodologies, perspectives, and timeframes in research, in order to form a more complete picture of what is possible in recovery; the multiple aspects of an individual's life that can improve, the greater number of people who can recover than previously believed, and the reaffirmation of hope that, even after decades, individuals can begin, and successfully continue, their ED recovery process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather Hower
- Department of Psychiatry, Eating Disorders Center for Treatment and Research, University of California at San Diego School of Medicine, 4510 Executive Drive, San Diego, CA, 92121, USA. .,Department of Health Services, Policy, and Practice, Hassenfeld Child Innovation Institute, Brown University School of Public Health, 121 South Main Street, Providence, RI, 02903, USA.
| | - Andrea LaMarre
- School of Psychology, Massey University, North Shore, Private Bag 102-904, Auckland, 0632, New Zealand
| | - Rachel Bachner-Melman
- Clinical Psychology Graduate Program, Ruppin Academic Center, 4025000, Emek-Hefer, Israel.,School of Social Work, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Mt. Scopus, 9190501, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Erin N Harrop
- Graduate School of Social Work, University of Denver, 2148 S High Street, Denver, CO, 80208, USA
| | - Beth McGilley
- University of Kansas School of Medicine, 1010 N Kansas St, Wichita, KS, 67214, USA
| | - Therese E Kenny
- Department of Psychology, Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada
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Coopey E, Johnson G. "The male elephant in the room": a qualitative evidence synthesis exploring male experiences of eating disorders. J Eat Disord 2022; 10:131. [PMID: 36056450 PMCID: PMC9440558 DOI: 10.1186/s40337-022-00614-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Men are believed to be underrepresented in eating disorder services; there are many reasons presented to account for this such as a lack of recognition and detection. Due to the physical and psychological complexity of an eating disorder it is important to understand this underrepresentation. This qualitative evidence synthesis aimed to explore the literature relating to men's experiences of an eating disorder, in order to synthesise the findings and offer a more coherent understanding. METHOD A systematic search of the literature was undertaken. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied to the findings resulting in 14 papers deemed suitable for inclusion. A Meta-Ethnographic approach to synthesising the data of the 89 participants was undertaken. RESULTS Four themes were identified: 'Societal Construction of the Perfect Male'; 'Striving to Maintain a Masculine Identity'; 'The Interconnectedness of Control and Self-Worth', and 'The Hidden Man'. There appeared to be an underlying concept relating to the conflict of being a man, with what is perceived to be a 'woman's illness' and how this challenged the men's experiences of masculinity. CONCLUSIONS Being a man with an eating disorder conflicted with societal norms, exacerbating their experience of having an eating disorder.. To resolve this, gendered norms need to shift, at societal level as well as considering how best to improve understanding and recognition of men with an eating disorder at the first point of help seeking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Coopey
- Centre for Applied Psychology, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.
| | - George Johnson
- Centre for Applied Psychology, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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Malova E, Dunleavy V. Men have eating disorders too: an analysis of online narratives posted by men with eating disorders on YouTube. Eat Disord 2022; 30:437-452. [PMID: 34402402 DOI: 10.1080/10640266.2021.1930338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Eating Disorders (ED) among men are still surrounded by stigma and gender stereotypes, with a common misconception that ED are an exclusively female condition. This study employed a gender-sensitive approach to uncover males' critical needs for effective treatment and recovery. We qualitatively analyzed a sample of twenty-five videos posted on YouTube by men with ED, presenting personal stories of recovery and recovery in-progress. Through thematic analysis of the narratives, we identified three common factors increasing disordered eating behaviors in men: 1) bullying, 2) drive for muscularity, and 3) self-regulation. In addition, we found three major themes related to barriers preventing men from help-seeking: 1) shame and stigma, 2) lack of knowledge and information, and 3) low level of perceived doctor-patient communication. The findings of this study can contribute to the conceptualization of future interventions and recovery programs designed to prevent and treat ED in men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ekaterina Malova
- Department of Communication Studies, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida, USA
| | - Victoria Dunleavy
- Department of Communication Studies, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida, USA
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Sangha S, Oliffe JL, Kelly MT, McCuaig F. Eating Disorders in Males: How Primary Care Providers Can Improve Recognition, Diagnosis, and Treatment. Am J Mens Health 2020; 13:1557988319857424. [PMID: 31184292 PMCID: PMC6560809 DOI: 10.1177/1557988319857424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Eating disorders are complex and multifactorial illnesses that affect a broad spectrum of individuals across the life span. Contrary to historic societal beliefs, this disorder is not gender-specific. Lifetime prevalence of eating disorders in males is on the rise and demanding the attention of primary care providers, as well as the general population, in order to negate the potentially life-threatening complications. Current literature has continued to reinforce the notion that eating disorders predominately affect females by excluding males from research, thereby adding to the void in men-centered knowledge and targeted clinical care. To determine what is currently known about eating disorders among males, a scoping review was undertaken, which identified 15 empirical studies that focused on this topic. Using the Garrard matrix to extract and synthesize the findings across these studies, this scoping review provides an overview of the contributing and constituting factors of eating disorders in males by exploring the associated stigmas, risk factors, experiences of men diagnosed with an eating disorder, and differing clinical presentations. The synthesized evidence is utilized to discuss clinical recommendations for primary care providers, inclusive of male-specific treatment plans, as a means to improving care for this poorly understood and emerging men’s health issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simrin Sangha
- 1 University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - John L Oliffe
- 1 University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Mary T Kelly
- 1 University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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Abstract
BACKGROUND: Eating disorders seriously affect both physical health and psychosocial functioning. Breaking the confines of an eating disorder requires engagement in a multifaceted recovery process. OBJECTIVE: This article provides a synthesis of 12 qualitative research studies with various eating disordered populations (anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, eating disorder not otherwise specified, and other specified feeding and eating disorders) to elucidate the recovery process from the perspective of those who have overcome the disease. METHOD: A metasynthesis of qualitative studies was conducted using Noblit and Hare's metaethnographic methodology. RESULTS: Five overarching themes emerged from the data: (1) the eating disorder as a life jacket, (2) drowning: recognizing consequences, (3) treading the surface: contemplating recovery, (4) swimming: the path toward recovery, and (5) reaching recovery: a sense of freedom. CONCLUSIONS: Eating disorder treatment often entails a cycle of transitions before recovery occurs. Synthesizing the experiences from the perspective of individuals who have overcome an eating disorder presents a unique understanding of the treatment and recovery process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carrie Morgan Eaton
- Carrie Morgan Eaton, PhD, MSN, RNC-OB, C-EFM, CHSE, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
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Bardone-Cone AM, Johnson S, Raney TJ, Zucker N, Watson HJ, Bulik CM. Eating disorder recovery in men: A pilot study. Int J Eat Disord 2019; 52:1370-1379. [PMID: 31418898 DOI: 10.1002/eat.23153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2019] [Revised: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 08/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This pilot study examined the validity of a comprehensive definition of recovery (physical, behavioral, and cognitive recovery indices) for the first time in men. METHOD Men with an eating disorder history were recruited from former patients at eating disorder centers, university campuses, and fitness centers/gyms. At baseline and a 12-month follow-up, data were collected via online surveys, diagnostic interviews, and measured weight and height from men with an eating disorder history (n = 36) and men with no eating disorder history (n = 27). RESULTS Of the men with an eating disorder history, 15 met criteria for an eating disorder, 7 met criteria for partial recovery, and 5 for full recovery. Men who met criteria for full recovery did not differ significantly from men with no eating disorder history and had significantly lower levels of broad eating pathology, thinness and restricting expectancies, body shame, difficulties in stopping thoughts about body, food, or exercise, and male body attitudes related to muscularity and body fat than men with an eating disorder. Men meeting criteria for full recovery had higher levels of body acceptance and intuitive eating than men who met criteria for partial recovery or an eating disorder. In terms of predictive validity, of those fully recovered at baseline, 60% also met full recovery criteria at follow-up. DISCUSSION Preliminary findings suggest that a comprehensive definition of recovery applies to men. Although research with larger samples is needed, this research provides some optimism for the potential of recovery in men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna M Bardone-Cone
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Shelby Johnson
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Thomas J Raney
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Nancy Zucker
- Division of Child and Family Mental Health and Developmental Neuroscience, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina.,Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Hunna J Watson
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina.,School of Psychology, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,School of Paediatrics and Child Health, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Cynthia M Bulik
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina.,Department of Nutrition, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina.,Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Bachner-Melman R, Lev-Ari L, Zohar AH, Lev SL. Can Recovery From an Eating Disorder Be Measured? Toward a Standardized Questionnaire. Front Psychol 2018; 9:2456. [PMID: 30618916 PMCID: PMC6297874 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2018.02456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2018] [Accepted: 11/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: There is a clear need for a standardized definition of recovery from eating disorders (EDs) and for self-report instruments to assess where individuals with an ED are situated at a given point of time along their process of illness and recovery. It has been acknowledged that psychological and cognitive symptoms are important to recovery in addition to physical and behavioral indices. This study proposes a 28-item multidimensional questionnaire encompassing the main features of recovery from ED, derived from the endorsement of different criteria by people with a lifetime ED diagnosis, family members and ED clinicians. Methods: Participants were 213 volunteers over the age of 18 (118 people with a lifetime ED diagnosis, 58 healthy family members of people with EDs and 37 ED clinicians), who completed the ED-15 and indicated online how important they thought each of 56 criteria were for recovery from an ED. Results: Four factors were identified in an exploratory factor analysis: Lack of Symptomatic Behavior (LSB), Acceptance of Self and Body (ASB), Social and Emotional Connection (SEC), and Physical Health (PH). Confirmatory factor analysis using the seven highest loading items from each subscale confirmed the structure validity of a shortened version of this questionnaire, the Eating Disorders Recovery Endorsement Questionnaire (EDREQ), which had excellent goodness-of-fit indices. Despite a few between-group differences, there was general agreement that LSB was most salient to recovery, followed by ASB, SEC, and PH in that order. Conclusion: Despite the absence of a standardized definition of recovery from ED, there is a general consensus about its components. The EDREQ is a psychometrically sound questionnaire containing items that people with an ED history, their family members and therapists all define as important components of recovery. The inclusion of emotional and psychosocial aspects of recovery in addition to symptomatic and medical aspects is important to expand treatment goals and the concept of recovery from EDs beyond symptom relief and the absence of disease markers. As a clinical tool, the EDREQ stands to assist in setting and refining therapeutic goals throughout therapy, and in establishing standardized, comparable norms for recovery levels in research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Bachner-Melman
- Clinical Psychology Graduate Program, Ruppin Academic Center, Hadera, Israel
- The Paul Baerwald School of Social Work and Social Welfare, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Lilac Lev-Ari
- Clinical Psychology Graduate Program, Ruppin Academic Center, Hadera, Israel
| | - Ada H. Zohar
- Clinical Psychology Graduate Program, Ruppin Academic Center, Hadera, Israel
| | - Shay Lee Lev
- Clinical Psychology Graduate Program, Ruppin Academic Center, Hadera, Israel
- Student Counselling Service, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
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9
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Thapliyal P, Hay P, Conti J. Role of gender in the treatment experiences of people with an eating disorder: a metasynthesis. J Eat Disord 2018; 6:18. [PMID: 30123504 PMCID: PMC6088416 DOI: 10.1186/s40337-018-0207-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2018] [Accepted: 07/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Traditionally perceived as a disorder of women, Eating Disorders (EDs) are known to have impacts on people irrespective of their gender. This study is designed to synthesise the available qualitative research studies to more broadly understand the diverse experiences of ED and their treatment, specifically in relationship to issues of gender. METHODS The methodology involved a systematic search and quality appraisal of the literature published after 1980 using terms that aimed to represent the primary concepts of "role of gender" and "treatment experiences" and "eating disorders". Nine qualitative studies met the inclusion criteria. Meta-themes were inductively generated through a synthesis of data across themes from the relevant included papers. RESULTS Analysis of data was constructed around three meta-themes, each with subthemes. The first meta-theme "Out of sight, out of mind" depicted the experience of gender issues that were marginalised in treatment. More specifically for transgender people, when gender issues were ignored by treatment providers, this frequently led to non-disclosure of their gender identity. Furthermore, men were less likely to be assessed for an eating disorder and within this context; diagnosis of an ED and referral to specialist treatment was frequently hindered. The second meta-theme "Lack of literacy among health care providers" focused on issues related to misdiagnosis of EDs, and the question of whether this was related to a lack of health literacy amongst health professionals. The final theme "Pathways into treatment that address stigma and other barriers" highlighted the need for the development of future treatment interventions address the complex social reality of the experiencing person, including questions of gender. CONCLUSION Gender issues impact upon the ED experience and require broader consideration in the development and evaluation of ED treatment interventions, including the further development of gender-informed interventions. TRIAL REGISTRATION Protocol registered on PROSPERO 2017 CRD42017082616.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyanka Thapliyal
- Translational Health Research Institute (THRI), School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, NSW Australia
| | - Phillipa Hay
- Translational Health Research Institute (THRI), School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, NSW Australia
| | - Janet Conti
- School of Social Sciences and Psychology, Western Sydney University, Sydney, NSW Australia
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10
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Abstract
Eating disorders are traditionally thought of as a problem specific to women, but evidence suggests the disorders also occur in men. Identifying the problem and referring patients for treatment can be difficult. Understanding the nuances of these disorders and realizing the incidence in men is important, as it is often overlooked as a differential diagnosis.
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11
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de Vos JA, LaMarre A, Radstaak M, Bijkerk CA, Bohlmeijer ET, Westerhof GJ. Identifying fundamental criteria for eating disorder recovery: a systematic review and qualitative meta-analysis. J Eat Disord 2017; 5:34. [PMID: 29118983 PMCID: PMC5664841 DOI: 10.1186/s40337-017-0164-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2017] [Accepted: 06/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Outcome studies for eating disorders regularly measure pathology change or remission as the only outcome. Researchers, patients and recovered individuals highlight the importance of using additional criteria for measuring eating disorder recovery. There is no clear consensus on which additional criteria are most fundamental. Studies focusing on the perspectives of recovered patients show criteria which are closely related to dimensions of positive functioning as conceptualized in the complete mental health model. The aim of this study was to identify fundamental criteria for eating disorder recovery according to recovered individuals. METHODS A systematic review and a qualitative meta-analytic approach were used. Eighteen studies with recovered individuals and meeting various quality criteria were included. The result sections of the included papers were searched for themes that were stated as criteria for recovery or 'being recovered'. All themes were analyzed using a meta-summary technique. Themes were labeled into criteria for recovery and the frequency of the found criteria was examined. RESULTS In addition to the remission of eating disorder pathology, dimensions of psychological well-being and self-adaptability/resilience were found to be fundamental criteria for eating disorder recovery. The most frequently mentioned criteria were: self-acceptance, positive relationships, personal growth, decrease in eating disorder behavior/cognitions, self-adaptability/resilience and autonomy. CONCLUSIONS People who have recovered rate psychological well-being as a central criterion for ED recovery in addition to the remission of eating disorder symptoms. Supplementary criteria, besides symptom remission, are needed to measure recovery. We recommend including measurements of psychological well-being and self-adaptability/resilience in future research, such as outcome studies and in routine outcome measurement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Alexander de Vos
- Centre for eHealth and Well-being Research, University of Twente, Psychology, Health, & Technology, Enschede, The Netherlands
- Human Concern Foundation, center for Eating Disorders, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Andrea LaMarre
- University of Guelph, Department of Family Relations and Applied Nutrition, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mirjam Radstaak
- Centre for eHealth and Well-being Research, University of Twente, Psychology, Health, & Technology, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | | | - Ernst T. Bohlmeijer
- Centre for eHealth and Well-being Research, University of Twente, Psychology, Health, & Technology, Enschede, The Netherlands
- Optentia Research Focus Area, North-West University (VTC), Vanderbijlpark, South Africa
| | - Gerben J. Westerhof
- Centre for eHealth and Well-being Research, University of Twente, Psychology, Health, & Technology, Enschede, The Netherlands
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12
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Boon E, Zainal KA, Touyz SW. Perceptions of eating disorder diagnoses and body image issues in four male cases in Singapore. J Eat Disord 2017; 5:33. [PMID: 29075493 PMCID: PMC5649072 DOI: 10.1186/s40337-017-0159-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2017] [Accepted: 06/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the increasing number of patients presenting for treatment, little is still known about male eating disorders cases. The current study presents four male eating disorder cases presented to our specialized treatment facility in Singapore. CASE PRESENTATION Cases 1, 2 and 3 are homosexual males in their twenties and thirties who presented with anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa. Case 4 is a heterosexual male in his twenties diagnosed with binge eating disorder. All four cases expressed body image dissatisfaction, fat phobia and fear of weight gain. Additionally, all of them sought treatment because of comorbid psychiatric conditions or parental wishes. Premorbid obesity and homosexual orientation may be potential risk factors for males in developing eating disorders. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that more exploration needs to be done for males diagnosed with eating disorders, particularly in the Asian society. A deeper understanding into factors associated with symptom presentation and treatment-seeking behaviors would greatly assist in informing the direction and focus of treatment in the region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evelyn Boon
- Department of Psychiatry, Singapore General Hospital, 226 Outram Road, Singapore, 169039 Singapore
| | - Kelly Ann Zainal
- Department of Psychiatry, Singapore General Hospital, 226 Outram Road, Singapore, 169039 Singapore
| | - Stephen W Touyz
- School of Psychology, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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13
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of the current study is to investigate what males experience as helpful in their recovery process from eating disorders (ED). METHODS Qualitative in-depth interviews within a phenomenological approach, and using content analysis to excavate overarching text themes. SETTING Norway and Sweden. PARTICIPANTS Included were 15 males with an age range from 19 to 52 years. Duration of illness varied between 3 and 25 years of experience with anorexia nervosa (n=10), bulimia nervosa (n=4) or ED not otherwise specified (n=1). RESULTS The content analysis revealed four main categories, that is, 'the need for a change', 'a commitment to leave the eating disorder behind', 'interpersonal changes' and 'searching for a life without an eating disorder'. These categories comprise features like motivation to change, gaining structure in eating situations, a re-learning of personal and interpersonal skills as well as accepting losses and starting a reorientation of identity and meaning. We noted a rather goal-oriented approach to help seeking and a variation in how the males engaged their social network in resolving the challenges associated with the recovery process. Still, the overall nature of the recovery process highly accords with what has been reported for women. DISCUSSION A clinical implication from our findings is that symptom relief is important to facilitate good circles of improvement, but that the nature of the recovery process would require a wider perspective in treatment. Clinicians may also be informed about challenges related to an instrumental approach to help seeking reported in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gunn Pettersen
- Department of Health and Care Science, University of Tromsø-The Artic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Karin Wallin
- Department of Clinical Science Lund, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Tabita Björk
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University Health Care Research Center, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
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14
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Eating disorders in men aged midlife and beyond. Maturitas 2015; 81:248-55. [DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2015.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2015] [Revised: 03/05/2015] [Accepted: 03/06/2015] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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15
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Thapliyal P, Hay PJ. Treatment experiences of males with an eating disorder: a systematic review of qualitative studies. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014. [DOI: 10.3402/tdp.v2.25552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Phillipa J. Hay
- School of MedicineUniversity of Western Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Centre for Health ResearchUniversity of Western Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- School of Medicine James Cook University, Townsville, Australia
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16
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Räisänen U, Hunt K. The role of gendered constructions of eating disorders in delayed help-seeking in men: a qualitative interview study. BMJ Open 2014; 4:e004342. [PMID: 24713213 PMCID: PMC3987710 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2013-004342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To understand how young men recognise eating disorder (ED) symptoms and decide to seek help, and to examine their experiences of initial contacts with primary care. DESIGN A qualitative interview study. SETTING Men from across the UK were interviewed as part of a study of 39 young men's and women's experiences of having an ED. PARTICIPANTS 10 men aged 16-25 years with various EDs including anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa. RESULTS The widespread perception of EDs as uniquely or predominantly a female problem led to an initial failure by young men to recognise their behaviours as symptoms of an ED. Many presented late in their illness trajectory when ED behaviours and symptoms were entrenched, and some felt that opportunities to recognise their illness had been missed because of others' lack of awareness of EDs in men. In addition, the men discussed the lack of gender-appropriate information and resources for men with EDs as an additional impediment to making sense of their experiences, and some felt that health and other professionals had been slow to recognise their symptoms because they were men. CONCLUSIONS Although increasingly common in young men, widespread cultural constructions of EDs as a 'women's illness' mean that men may fail to recognise ED symptoms until disordered behaviours become entrenched and less tractable to intervention. Men also report that such perceptions can affect the reactions of their families and friends, as well as health and educational professionals. Primary care professionals are well placed to challenge inappropriate perceptions of EDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulla Räisänen
- HERG Health Experiences Research Group, Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Kate Hunt
- HERG Health Experiences Research Group, Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
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Murray SB, Griffiths S, Rieger E, Touyz S. A comparison of compulsive exercise in male and female presentations of anorexia nervosa: what is the difference? ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013. [DOI: 10.1080/21662630.2013.839189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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